Abnormal bleeding is more common than you might think, but it can still be a distressing experience. If you live in or around South Charleston, West Virginia, the practitioners at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc. can help resolve your abnormal bleeding. OB/GYN Kiran Patel, MD, family medicine practitioner Leela Patel, MD, and their team find answers for your symptoms and explore treatments to address abnormal bleeding. The process begins with a phone call or a click on the online booking tool to schedule an appointment, so don’t delay.
Everyone’s period is a bit different, so what’s normal for you might be very different from the experience of a friend or family member.
For most women, their period lasts 3-5 days or up to a week. That bleeding is relatively easy to contain with standard female hygiene products like pads or tampons. A degree of cramping is normal, as is feeling a little bloated, cranky, and uncomfortable during your period.
Menstrual bleeding is considered abnormal if any of the following symptoms are present:
In short, if your periods are disruptive to your normal routines, you should schedule a diagnostic exam at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc. to determine the cause.
Some of the potential causes of abnormal bleeding include:
An in-depth diagnostic exam is the best way to find answers.
The process begins with a discussion about your bleeding and other symptoms. Be prepared to share details about when you notice unusual bleeding, how much you’re bleeding, and what circumstances precede or follow the bleeding.
A pelvic exam follows and gives your gynecologist a chance to check for tissue abnormalities in your vagina and cervix. Blood testing can be helpful, and also checks for anemia.
Ultrasound imaging can give your doctor more insight into the structure of your reproductive organs. A process called hysteroscopy uses a scope equipped with a light and camera to closely examine the interior of your uterus.
Additional testing may be needed based on the results of these screening efforts. You might need a biopsy or advanced imaging such as an MRI or CT scan.
Treatments for your abnormal bleeding depend on the cause and whether you wish to preserve your fertility.
Medications that can reduce the severity of your bleeding include birth control pills and other hormone treatments, an IUD containing progesterone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa), and tranexamic acid.
Surgical options include endometrial ablation using NovaSure®, myomectomy or uterine artery embolization, and da Vinci® robotic hysterectomy.
If you’re tired of structuring your life around your period or unusual bleeding, call the office or use the online tool to schedule an appointment at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc. today.
Tolerating long, heavy, painful periods isn't healthy. They're a physical, emotional, and financial gut punch.
We see patients in the following surrounding cities: South Charleston, Huntington, Davis Creek, Jefferson, Wilson, and more. Call us to book your appointment today.